An outline planning application seeks to establish whether the scale and nature of a proposed development would be acceptable before a detailed design is put forward. The process is divided into several stages:
- Engagement: Developers often engage with the local planning authority (LPA) and community to discuss the proposed development.
- Advice: The LPA provides advice on the likelihood of obtaining planning permission and any specific requirements.
- Application Form: Completed with basic details of the proposed development.
- Location Plan: Showing the site and its surrounding area.
- Indicative Layout: A basic plan indicating how the site could be developed.
- Supporting Documents: May include planning statements, transport assessments, and environmental impact assessments (EIA) if required.
- Fee: Payment of the relevant application fee.
- Validation: The LPA checks that all required documents and fees have been submitted.
- Registration: The application is entered into the planning register and a case officer is assigned.
- Notification: Neighbours, statutory consultees, and the public are notified and invited to comment.
- Consultation Period: Typically lasts for 21 days.
- Assessment: The LPA assesses the application against local and national planning policies.
- Recommendation: The case officer prepares a report with a recommendation for approval or refusal.
- Delegated Authority or Planning Committee: The decision is made by the LPA’s planning committee or under delegated authority by planning officers.
- Outline Planning Permission: If granted, sets out the basic principles of the development. Conditions may be attached requiring submission of further details (reserved matters).